As winter break approaches, families in the Santa Maria Valley face a tough situation. When school meals stop, many struggle to find enough food.
Local agencies highlight the difficulties for those who rely on free or reduced-price meals. “Kids usually get two or three meals at school, but during the break, those meals vanish,” said Laurel Alcantar, from the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County.
Winter can bring added challenges. Many families, especially in agriculture and service sectors, see their work hours drop. “Winter brings a lot of need in Santa Barbara County,” noted Maria Gardner, from the county’s Department of Social Services. “Bad weather can limit job opportunities, leading to more calls for assistance.”
Families receiving CalFresh benefits might find their food supply dwindling when kids are home. “Those benefits often don’t last throughout the month,” Alcantar explained. But help is available, even if families don’t qualify for government programs. “If you’re in need, you can come to a Foodbank distribution for support,” she added.
The Santa Maria-Bonita School District is working with local groups to provide meals during the break. The YMCA is one such partner. “We deliver food to students and community members through our winter camp and other programs,” said Michael Specht from the YMCA.
The district also encourages families to reach out to Family Resource Centers for assistance. Visit the district’s website for locations and information.
For those unsure where to begin, county officials recommend calling 2-1-1. This resource connects people to food assistance and other services. “Just dial 211 or check their website for updates,” Gardner said.
During winter, it’s crucial to know about local resources. Organizations like the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County can help you find food distributions.
In 2021, a study revealed that nearly 1 in 5 children in California experienced food insecurity. This winter break, it’s more important than ever to provide support for families in need. By banding together, the community can help fill the gap when school meals are unavailable.
